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6.28.2015

It has only been a few weeks since school let out for my sons and already my usual introverted self is desperate for my much needed time alone. When school is in session, I typically begin the day with a gentle rhythm that's very similar to being cradled with a sweet lullaby. I had my own morning routine...meditation, followed by a good workout, and then a healthy breakfast. All of these things fueled me, and when it came time to take my place at my computer, it was super easy to delve into writing. Peace encompassed my home. As I typed away on my chapters, I would take periodic breaks to gaze out my bedroom window, watching and enjoying the sounds of the lawn sprinklers, while sipping a warm beverage.

Now with my sons home, my natural alarm clock has been replaced with the sounds of competitive banter while they play the latest video game (I think that's what they still call them. Perhaps I have dated myself); or the gardener mowing the lawn by 6:00am to beat the stifling California heat; a house full of boys (including my son's friends) devouring the last crumbs in the kitchen; and then there's the statement that puts every parent on edge..."We're bored. What are we doing today?" Not knowing I'm completely satisfied with absolute stillness. Oh how I wish I could reach for that imaginary button - push it firmly, and put the sounds of my current situation on mute.

Don't get me wrong, I adore spending time with my sons, its just their being out of school and home during this crucial time of writing a book has pushed my usual relaxed routine into over-drive, leaving me to search for tidbits of tranquility. So for today, as I seek peace, I also quiet my wardrobe by wearing pieces which have a soft drape, easy to wear, and of course, in delicate, muted shades...soft metallic gold is paired with creamy tones of white and a splash of mellow yellow. Each garment caresses me with their pliable fabrications. Enjoy the look!

Like I mentioned above, during my quiet moments, I look forward to indulging in a warm beverage. Recently a heard a review for a coffee alternative called Teeccino from one of my favorite authors - Jennifer L. Scott (Lessons From Madam Chic). After hearing her review, I was eager to try the brand. Teeccino is caffeine-free herbal coffee alternative. Here's a statement taken from the Teeccino website - By including herbal beverages in your daily life, you can enjoy numerous cups a day of delicious tasting herbal teas and herbal coffees that
bring you many wellness properties. Herbs contain a complex variety of
unique antioxidants, soluble fiber, enzymes, essential oils, and immune
stimulating constituents that work together synergistically to promote
good health. Additionally, those who are experiencing caffeine withdrawal benefit greatly from weaning off coffee with Teeccino.

(I have not been compensated in any way for this review. It's just me sharing with you) I'm happy to tell you the Teeccino faux coffee in the Vanilla Nut flavor is actually quite good. Since I'm not an aggressive coffee drinker (I much prefer teas), I opted for a medium roast. I was pleasantly surprised by the flavor - a delicate blend of creamy vanilla and almonds - Yum! I've been enjoying having a few stolen moments of sipping the warm drink, while the rest of the world is on mute. Tell me friends, do you also search for that big, imaginary mute button? How do you escape from the chaotic times?{wink}.

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6.24.2015

We all harbor special thoughts about summer...the longer days; relishing in the warm sun; endless hours in the swimming pool. For myself, yes I adore all of these things, however, one of my most cherished aspects of summer-time are the things nature has given to us to enjoy...the wide assortment of succulent fruits and gorgeous flowers. I so enjoy biting into a sweet, juicy nectarine or mango, or bringing nature indoors by cutting a magnificent spray of flowers from my garden. Outside my office window, I take-in the sweet smell of my lavender plant. I watch as the honeybees dart to-and-from the blooms as they try to satisfy their insatiable appetite for its delicious nectar. In celebration of nature's summer-time gift to us, I dedicate this fashion post - Fruits and Flowers. Enjoy!

What do you love most about summer, and is your special something grand or small? Do share, I would love to read what makes this season special to you {wink}

Hey friends, don't forget, for a limited time, eShakti has a special $35 gift coupon for my So What to Twenty readers. Just use the code below at check out. Happy
Shopping!

GC CODE: SOWHATTOTWENTY35

Valid till 06/30/2015
Enter this code in the 'Gift Coupon / Referral Code' box at checkout
Only one gift coupon can be used in an order
Not valid on previous purchases / purchase of gift cards.
This gift coupon cannot be transferred, re-issued or exchanged for cash.Minimum order value $35.

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6.21.2015

Now, on to fashion and lifestyle...
I have a little game I play when I go shopping. Whenever I see something I love, I always ask myself..."OK, where am I wearing this?" When I can visualize myself wearing the garment for a specific occasion - it's a winner. As an example, the look for today immediately carried me away to the sound of steel drums, crystal blue skies and the turquoise waters of an island paradise. I think I have a case of Island Fever.

Unfortunately, a vacation to the Islands is but a mere fantasy right now, as financial priorities take center stage. Since I can't partake in an extravagant trip this summer, I'm fortunate enough to live in a state which boast it's own tropical lure...840 miles of uninterrupted coastline; loads of palm trees that kiss the sky; endless opportunities to drive the highway with the sunroof open...need I say more. I'm not bragging, just appreciating what I have. Regardless, if I'm in Jamaica, the Bahamas or good ol' California, this perfect little dress conjures up images of me strolling near rhythmic crashing waves while sipping a lush tropical drink. Enjoy the look!

Bohemian spirited accessories add to the vacation vibe print in this lightweight dress.

Though I may not be able to travel afar, I can still hop in my car and drive 30 miles to the west where I can taste the salty sea, bask in the warm sun, walk along the shoreline and wiggle my toes in the sand. Oh wait, I think I hear steel drums {wink}

Hey, before I close this post, have you checked out the latest fashions from eShakti? If you haven't please be sure to give them a visit. I'm most positive you'll enjoy the new additions to their fashion repertoire...delicious Bohemian styles that will make you swoon; Contemporary garments that are sure to add a bit of flare to your wardrobe (I'm in love with their denim chambray top stitched skirt); and the Retro Modern department which gives a nod to fashions of decades past. I'm headed there now to do some shopping. For a limited time, my So What to Twenty readers can have a $35 gift coupon. Just use the code below at check out. Happy Shopping!

GC CODE: SOWHATTOTWENTY35

Valid till 06/30/2015
Enter this code in the 'Gift Coupon / Referral Code' box at checkout
Only one gift coupon can be used in an order
Not valid on previous purchases / purchase of gift cards.
This gift coupon cannot be transferred, re-issued or exchanged for cash.
Minimun order value of $30

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6.17.2015

This lightweight gauzy shirtdress is an idea garment for weathering the hot temperatures in Southern California. As I posed for these pictures, it was 9:30am and already, the temps were nearing the 90 degree mark. It is safe to say - summer has indeed arrived.

The versatility of this shirtdress is one I can certainly appreciate. In my opinion, (Tweet This) ---> versatile garments are the key to wardrobe success. When I first spotted the item, my mind imagined different ways in which to wear it...as a swimsuit cover-up, over pants or shorts, and as a dress (Slip required of course. It is somewhat sheer). When you see the Tall Tasseled Shirtdress on the Loft website, you'll notice it's shown with the buttons done high on the neckline. As you can see, I chose to give it a more open feel by leaving the first two buttons undone, and tucking the dress inside and securing the fold with a bit of two sided wardrobe tape. The openness of the neckline makes me feel less closed-in and more relaxed. Enjoy the look!

Comfort and simplicity are two key components I insist on when dressing. The lightweight, gauzy fabric makes this item super easy to play with. I now imagine wearing it with a fitted white dress while leaving the buttons undone and wearing it as a duster. So many possibilities. Can you think of other clever ways to wear this shirtdress? Do tell {wink}

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6.14.2015

"Everything that is really great and inspiring is created by the individual who can labor in freedom."

Albert Einstein

On Thursday, I watched with an overjoyed heart as my oldest son graduated from high school. After shaking hands with members of the school board of directors, he returned to his seat with a jovial walk and smile. Most certainly, I could feel his happiness. It was such an incredible moment. Later the same evening, after spending time celebrating by dancing the night away with friends and family, I asked my son what he was thinking once he received his diploma. His response, "My Freedom."

As he takes the next big step in his life from grade school to college, and closer to his dream of living his life in the creative music industry, I am reminded of how my young son inspires me to continue making my own strides. Strides which are sometimes difficult to take, but because I'm pursuing a much sought after dream, the steps have the uncanny ability to cut the ties that bind and restrict - Yes, Freedom.

For today's look, I'm wearing an outfit which represents my free and creative spirit - A bohemian trapeze top combined with a pair of spandex infused Bermuda shorts that fit my curves without making me feel bound. And of course, accessories and sandals which are a balanced yet clever mix of quirky patterns and textures. Might I add, I'm wearing a Disney Millennium watch. Who better to represent the quote above than the iconic Walt Disney - a man whose mind must have been completely unshackled to have created such a magical legacy. Enjoy the look!

My son and I are generations apart. Yet and still, we find ourselves on parallel paths - both of us embracing a life which will give us opportunities to inspire...to create...to labor in freedom {wink}

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